Author: Kathryn Spurgeon

After learning I have cancer, the outpouring of words, prayers and support have been a healing balm to our souls. Bill and I are so grateful! We know we will not walk through this pathway alone.

This cancer is anal cell carcinoma, uncommon, I had never heard of it before. Stage 2 because it was also found in a nearby lymph node. No other cancer in my body, and believe me the docs tested everything.  I told my grandchildren that it is on my bottom, I have trouble sitting for a long time. One child said, “You will look funny if they have to take off one cheek.” We laughed, and I assured her that I don’t think that will happen. However, any surgery to take out the tumor would leave me with a colostomy.

We were anxious about the treatment choice. When the church elders prayed for us, one of our prayer requests was wisdom for the decisions. There are so many decisions to make. The standard protocol is 6 weeks of radiation five days a week, along with two rounds of chemo at the same time. Didn’t sound appealing to me, since I’ve heard about the damage chemo/radiation can do to your body. So we also chose to add holistic or naturopathic methods, meaning, taking Vitamin C intravenously, additional vitamins, and minerals, Poly MVA etc. This hopefully, will help me through and help reduce the effects of chemo/radiation. I can’t say I understand it all, but this combination seems right for me at this time. We both feel at peace about the treatment.

I got a “port” implanted into my chest through outpatient surgery. I’m learning many new words. A port is so they won’t have to stick me all the time. The drugs and vitamins can be administered through it.

Your prayer and concern have lifted our spirits immensely already  – and I haven’t even started treatment. You are an awesome circle of family and friends. I could ask for no better support as I go through this.

Prognosis is good to eradicate the nasty cancer cells. But percentage of success is not my concern. I am in God’s hands and He is the great Physician. We pray that the doctors will make correct choices and that I will do my best to complete the treatment. Life’s journey may be rocky for a little while, so pray for God to give me strength.

Thank you for your wonderful support. You are loved,

kathryn

 My life journey has taken a sharp turn. I have cancer. Bill and I found out about 10 days ago and waited to tell everyone until we shared with our college students.

Tentatively, on November 26^th I will begin six weeks of chemo and radiation. A tough treatment, but effective.

 I’m sorry we couldn’t tell you in person, but it seems I’ve had doctor visits every day, a dozen vials of blood drawn, and so many medical tests I feel like research took a giant leap.

 I have begun taking supplements that will help combat the disease and effects of the chemo/radiation including extra vitamins, nutrients, etc. I changed my diet, started eating my vegetables and doing all those good-for-you things I should have done years ago. 

 God is with me. I feel His sweet presence and know that He will help me through. I will never be alone. It is very sad to tell my loved ones the news, but I remain at peace and hope to pray, listen to Christian music, read the Bible, and be a witness through this.

 Please pray for Mr. Bill. He has gone to about every doctor appointment with me and been right by my side. He is learning to be a caretaker and is worried about what to feed me! Maybe he needs some cooking lessons!

 I also ask that you pray for me. Although we have changed plans, slowed down and put our Bible studies on hold,  I need pray for strength and stamina. Mostly pray that everything I do and say will glorify Him.

 Remember the verse, Romans 8:28, “And we know that all things work together  for good to those who love God, who are the called according to His purpose.”

 “All things” means everything is in God’s plan and done for His purpose. He is aware of even this difficult part of my life’s journey.

You are loved, Kathryn